How To Restore Fertility After Testosterone
Timeline
Video Summary
A man on testosterone asks how to restore sperm production and improve his chances of conception. Dr. O’Connor explains that exogenous testosterone suppresses LH and FSH signaling and can dramatically reduce semen production, making fertility restoration difficult while testosterone is continued.
He recommends checking a semen analysis and discusses coming off testosterone before using fertility-directed medications such as HCG and Clomid. HCG may stimulate testicular function, while Clomid can support the hormonal signals involved in spermatogenesis.
Dr. O’Connor also shares his own experience stopping testosterone and using HCG when trying to conceive his second child. He emphasizes that younger men considering testosterone or anabolic steroids should understand the potential impact on fertility before suppressing their natural reproductive system.
Drug Callouts
Condition Callouts
Key Takeaways
- Testosterone can strongly suppress LH and FSH signaling and substantially reduce sperm production in men who later want children.
- A semen analysis can show whether meaningful sperm production remains while a man is using or recovering from testosterone.
- Dr. O’Connor recommends coming off testosterone when fertility becomes the goal rather than trying to overcome continued suppression indefinitely.
- HCG and Clomid are discussed as fertility-directed medications that may help restore testicular stimulation and spermatogenesis after testosterone suppression.
- Young men considering testosterone or anabolic steroids should understand the potential fertility consequences before suppressing their natural reproductive system.